This computer was an enhanced version of the Challenger IIp. The motherboard was equipped with 3 microprocessors: 6800, 6502A and Z80. An optional 74 MB harddisk was available ($6000 !).
It was supplied with a word processor called WP-1 and a database called DMS. An enhanced version of the operating system allowed to connect up to 16 terminals to the computer at one time.
About OSI, Frank Leonhardt* adds:
Unfortunately OSI did not get its model numbers straight - it was a very disorganised company. A lot of users got the circuit diagrams for bits of OSI equipment and modified one board to another, as they were all made up of the same parts - and dealers would mix and match boards to build a machine to customers requirements.
Their final machine was the Challenger 5, which was a bit like the Challenger 3 but it had five processors - again, OSI could not decide which 16-bit processor was going to WIN so they added a 68000 and a Z8000 to the C3. They never believed that the 8086 would become popular. I know someone connected to their main dealer who saw something about this, but I don't think they were ever sold.
The 74Mb Winchester disk was real - amazing for 1978. Apparently it was very unreliable until the guy who owned it (Dave Graham) covered the outside of the box with lots and lots of fans.
* Frank was the first Technical Editor for the famous Personal Computer World magazine, England's (Europe's) biggest computer magazine - founded in 1978.
主要参数编辑本段回目录
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| NAME | CHALLENGER III |
| MANUFACTURER | OHIO Scientific |
| TYPE | Professional Computer |
| ORIGIN | U.S.A. |
| YEAR | 1978 |
| CPU | 6502 + 6800 + Z80/8080 |
| SPEED | 1 Mhz / 2 Mhz |
| RAM | 32 KB (up to 1 MB !) |
| ROM | Unknown |
| I/O PORTS | Expansion slots |
| BUILT IN MEDIA | One or two 8'' disk-drives |
| OS | OS-65U, OS-65D, CP/M |
| POWER SUPPLY | Internal P.S.U. |
| PERIPHERALS | RS-232 card, Centronics card, etc. |
| PRICE | $3481 with a dual F.D. drive unit |
